Hacking means breaking into someone else's computer without permission. Although hacking is classified into several levels, from defacing the home page of a website to breaking into government departments of national security, it is illegal no matter what reason or motive.

The school computer network may have security vulnerabilities within the software installed. Hackers can easily attack and gain control of the school server. Installing firewall software can control and monitor the data traffic of the server and prevent a hackers' attack. To prevent students from installing software with a backdoor access, make sure the student users' accounts do not have any administrative rights and cannot install any third party software without permission.

Real Case Scenario

Fa Lun Gong

In September 2002, the news section of popular portal sina.com was defaced by Fa Lun Gong propaganda. It was reported to be a malicious act of a Fa Lun Gong practitioner. No arrest has been made.

"Virtual Weapons"

Three Hong Kong teenagers, aged 16 to 19, have been charged with "illegal and unauthorized access," The three teenagers are suspected of using someone else's online gaming membership to steal more than 15 "virtual weapons." The password of the victim was stolen with eavesdropping software, which was installed by the three teenagers illegally. One of the items, virtual armour, can be sold for as much as HK$7,000. The teenagers face a maximum penalty of 5 years imprisonment.

Teachers’ Corner

CESY Introduction for Teachers

There are many typical problems that students may encounter in cyberspace.

This section provides teachers with a reference for educating students in Cyber Ethics and also provides technical information about various security concerns in school computer networks.